"I think the quarterback's really good against zone and finding those pockets and spaces, and I think the receivers adjust routes to do that," Spagnuolo explained. "That makes it really challenging in zone."
Spagnuolo will face Purdy again this weekend when the Chiefs travel to Santa Clara to play the 49ers at Levi's Stadium. His primary focus will be on limiting 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan's rushing attack, but he acknowledges that Purdy poses a significant challenge as well.
"It's going to start up front and stopping the run, and hopefully, we can get the quarterback not to be in timing like he is because I can't find a weakness in this quarterback," Spagnuolo admitted. "Every time I put the film on, I'm more and more impressed."
Spagnuolo reflected on his first look at Purdy during the 2022 regular-season matchup. The rookie entered the game after the Chiefs had the victory well in hand.
"It was at the end of the game, and I think they had taken [Jimmy] Garoppolo out, and it was Brock Purdy," Spagnuolo recalled. "And I had forgotten that, but he ran the two-minute drill and kind of got them down there, and then I think we picked it off at the end. But he looked pretty good then. Not like he is now, but I'm really impressed with the quarterback."
He also pointed out that the Chiefs' defensive personnel have changed since last season, which may impact their ability to replicate their success against Purdy in the Super Bowl.
"But I just think their system is built that they really can expose on coverage," Spagnuolo added, "and yet, I think they've got enough skill that, if you don't have the right man, people covering their men, that that can be challenging, too."
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers' Brock Purdy shares honest perspective on 2025 performance
The 2025 season didn't unfold the way San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy had envisioned. Fresh off a massive contract extension, Purdy entered the year motivated to justify the organization's belief in him and build on his previous success. The season began on a... -
49ers owner sends unmistakable message on Brock Purdy's impact on franchise
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy once again proved his value in 2025, guiding the team to the NFL playoffs despite a roster hit hard by injuries. It marked the third postseason appearance in his four NFL seasons. Purdy battled adversity of his own. A turf toe injury... -
49ers' Fred Warner settles the debate: Where does Brock Purdy rank among NFL QBs?
The debate over where Brock Purdy ranks among the NFL's elite passers remains a hot topic. However, for San Francisco 49ers All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner, there is no debate—Purdy is the gold standard in the league. "I think that he just processes the game at a different... -
49ers QB Mac Jones: "I've proven I can be a starter"
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones appeared on NFL Network's The Insiders on Wednesday and discussed his future in the league. Jones is under contract through the 2026 season after signing a two-year deal with San Francisco last year. His goal was to learn from head...